Greenville School Board Incumbents Secure Re-election in Strong Showing
GREENVILLE — On Tuesday, November 5, 2024, voters in Greenville demonstrated overwhelming support for their school board incumbents during the Election Day polls. All four incumbent school board members who faced challengers retained their positions, signaling a strong vote of confidence from the community.
Polling stations, like the one at the Sears Shelter near downtown Greenville, reported minimal wait times for voters. By mid-morning, individuals were able to cast their ballots in less than ten minutes, making the voting experience efficient for the community.
Incumbents Retain Seats Despite Challenges
Among the incumbents, Carolyn Styles, who serves as the chairwoman of the school board, successfully defended her District 17 seat against challenger Lisa Bracewell. Styles secured a clear victory, obtaining 67.7 percent of the votes compared to Bracewell’s 31.47 percent. Styles has previous experience as a principal and is known for her support of recent tax increases aimed at improving education.
Scott Cline emerged victorious in a crowded field of candidates for the vacant District 19 seat left by Debi Bush, who had served for 28 years. Cline received 36.78 percent of the votes, defeating former teacher Amanda Stone who had 30.28 percent, and two other challengers. His win marks a change in leadership but continues the trend of experienced individuals holding board positions.
More Incumbents Hold On
In District 21, Angie Mosley faced a well-funded challenge but overcame it by securing 59.99 percent of the votes, while challenger Steve Whaley garnered 39.36 percent. Mosley’s victory reflects the support for her focus on critical issues like special education despite the financial disparity in campaign spending.
Michelle Goodwin-Calwile also successfully defended her District 25 seat, receiving 51.58 percent of the votes against retired administrator Greg Cantrell, who received 26.98 percent. Despite Cantrell’s significant administrative background, it was Goodwin-Calwile’s educational policies and community support that resonated more with voters.
In District 27, Sarah Dulin retained her seat, winning with 55.87 percent of the votes against Missy Marsh, who garnered 43.49 percent. Dulin has a history of advocating for reduced spending and led efforts to create local policies for reviewing educational materials.
A Look Ahead
The strong night for incumbents means that the school board will only see one new member: Scott Cline. Patrons of the school district have enjoyed rising academic performance and approved measures, such as increasing starting teacher salaries, benefiting from the recent tax increases. Community members have indicated that their primary concerns revolve around academic excellence and school safety.
The nonpartisan nature of these school board races allowed candidates to focus more on issues rather than party affiliation, which enabled voters to prioritize educational goals over political divides.
The next school board meeting will be an opportunity for the new board to discuss future initiatives and further enhance the educational landscape of Greenville.
